August 20

Born in Starzeddel, Germany, in 1886, Paul Tillich became a leading voice in 20th-century theology and philosophy. He earned acclaim for his "The Courage to Be" and his system of "correlation" theology, relating existential questions to religious answers. Tillich taught at prominent institutions, including Harvard Divinity School and the University of Chicago. He integrated existential philosophy with Christian thought, addressing the human condition in the wake of world wars. His lectures and writings attracted students worldwide. Tillich's innovative approach continues to influence theology and philosophical discourse.

Jean Gebser (1905–1973) was a German linguist, poet, and philosopher best known for 'The Ever-Present Origin,' which described the evolution of human consciousness through structures he called archaic, magic, mythic, mental, and integral. His interdisciplinary approach bridged anthropology, history, and psychology, influencing fields from literary theory to cultural studies. As a poet, Gebser wrote lyrical verses reflecting his philosophical ideas. He emigrated to Switzerland in the 1930s, where he taught and wrote until his death. His legacy endures among scholars exploring alternatives to modern rationalism.